Publix did not grow into one of the largest grocery store operators in the country by accident.
Founded in 1930 in Winter Haven, Florida by George W. Jenkins, Publix has spent nearly a century building a retail model rooted in service, ownership and long-term thinking.
Today, the company is the largest employee-owned business in the United States and one of the 10 highest-volume supermarket chains nationwide.
For Tampa Bay business leaders, Publix offers a clear example of how scale, culture and consistency can coexist in a competitive retail environment.
Built on employee ownership
Publix’s employee-owned structure continues to shape how the company operates and grows.
Associates earn ownership through Publix Passport, tying individual performance and longevity directly to the company’s success.
That structure has helped Publix attract and retain talent in an industry known for high turnover.
READ: TAMPA BAY’S BIGGEST COMPANIES
With more than 260,000 employees, Publix is consistently recognized as one of the best companies to work for in Florida.
Publix careers remain among the most competitive retail jobs in the state, including in Publix Tampa locations that anchor neighborhoods across the region.
The ownership model reinforces accountability while giving employees a long-term stake in the business.
A grocery store model that keeps expanding
Publix operates 1,434 stores across the Southeast, with its largest footprint in Florida, where 889 locations serve local communities.
Additional stores operate in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Kentucky. That regional focus has allowed Publix to scale without losing its neighborhood-store identity.
In 2024, Publix reported $59.7B in retail sales, reflecting population growth across the Southeast and strong customer loyalty.
The company entered late 2025 with steady momentum, even as weather disruptions affected parts of the region.
READ: TAMPA BUSINESS NEWS
For the three months ended Sept. 27, 2025, Publix reported $15.4B in sales, a 5.2% increase from the same period in 2024. Comparable store sales rose 3.4%.
The company estimated sales growth would have reached 5.7% without the impact of Hurricane Helene, which disrupted operations in September 2024.
Net earnings for the quarter reached $1.2B, up 7.8% year over year. Earnings per share increased to $0.37 from $0.33 in 2024. Excluding unrealized equity gains, net earnings rose 5.4% to $980M.
For the first nine months of 2025, Publix posted $46.8B in sales, a 5.8% increase over the prior year. Net earnings totaled $3.6B, while adjusted earnings excluding equity market fluctuations reached $3.2B, an 8.6% increase year over year.
Publix CEO Kevin Murphy credited associates for the results as the company headed into the holiday season, reaffirming a focus on operational excellence and customer service.
More than a place to shop
Publix has steadily expanded beyond the traditional grocery store model.
Many locations feature full Publix deli and Publix bakery operations, known for prepared meals, fresh bread and the widely popular Publix sub.
Publix subs, Publix BOGO deals and $5 sushi Wednesdays continue to drive foot traffic and repeat visits.
READ: Tampa Bay’s Top Companies No. 1: Jabil
Publix pharmacy services, Publix liquor stores and in-store sushi programs allow customers to meet multiple needs in one stop.
Publix delivery and digital tools add convenience without replacing the in-store experience.
Customers regularly use online ordering, mobile apps and planning tools to check Publix hours, manage shopping lists and streamline weekly trips.
A disciplined approach to growth
While many retailers chase rapid expansion or technology-first strategies, Publix has remained disciplined.
Physical stores remain central to the business, supported by digital tools rather than disrupted by them.
READ: Tampa Bay’s Top Companies No. 2: Raymond James
That approach has helped Publix supermarkets stay relevant as consumer habits evolve, particularly in fast-growing metro areas like Tampa Bay.
Rather than overextending, the company continues to prioritize consistency, store experience and operational execution.
A long-term presence in Florida business
Publix’s longevity is rooted in patience, ownership and local commitment.
From its Winter Haven origins to its role as a major Florida employer, Publix continues to demonstrate how steady execution can outperform flashier strategies.
READ: Tampa Bay’s Top Companies No. 3: The Mosaic Company
In a region defined by rapid growth and competition, Publix stands out by doing the fundamentals exceptionally well.
For Florida retailers and business leaders alike, Publix remains a case study in how long-term thinking still wins.
